Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.

Automatic transmission: A clunking or knocking noise may be heard from the transmission when downshifting and is fixed by putting thread locking compound on the transmission output spines. (2003-05)

Electrical problem: The outside (ambient) temperature display reads high because the sensor is located too close to the oil cooler and must be moved. (2003)

Electrical problem: The center high-mounted stop light (CHMSL) comes loose and must be reattached with better tape. (2000-05)

Fuel door: The gas cap seal eventually fails which triggers the check engine light due to vapor emissions leak. (2005)

Keyless entry: The remote keyless entry may not unlock the doors after the vehicle sits overnight for which there is an improved door module that must be installed in the driver's door. (2003)

Steering noise: Noise from the power steering requires flushing and refilling after replacing the O-rings in the rack-and-pinion unit's fittings. (2003-05)

Transmission problems: Downshifts from 3-2 and 2-1 or upshifts from 1-2 may become harsh as the adaptive strategy drifts over time requiring reprogramming the engine control module and transmission control module. (2003-04)

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.

2003-04: Electronic parking brake module may unintentionally apply the parking brake, with no indication or warning to the driver; could cause rear-wheel lockup at any road speed.

2003-05: Brake fluid warning statement embossed on top of reservoir body may not be visible by direct view.

2005: Some vehicles may have fuel tanks with faulty seals, resulting in illumination of the malfunction indicator lamp, a fuel odor, and/or a fuel leak. Dealers will replace the fuel tanks free of charge.

2006 S-Type: Incorrect automatic transmission parking pawl guide plate, causing the car to not always be in "park," even though the lever may be engaged. Dealer will inspect and replace the pawl guide plate.